With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Frank D. “Buddy” Hudson on November 15, 2025.
His kindness, compassion, and gentle spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. A devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Buddy brought joy to a remarkable one-hundred years of life.
Born on August 4, 1925, in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, Buddy grew up in the community he loved.
He attended school there before earning an associate degree from Hardbarger’s Business College in Raleigh.
In 1946, he began his long career with Virginia Electric and Power Company (now Dominion Energy).
He married the love of his life, Margie Warrick, in 1950, and together they welcomed their daughter, Deborah.
Buddy also proudly served in the North Carolina National Guard.
Buddy lived a full and active life. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, and gardener, cultivating all kinds of vegetables and sharing the bounty with friends and family. He often said that being outdoors kept him healthy and happy. Many may not know that he was also a talented dancer. He especially loved Big Band and Swing music — and he could truly Jitterbug, even well into his nineties.
Woodworking was one of Buddy’s greatest passions. Gifted in refinishing, designing, and building furniture, he poured creativity and care into every piece he made.
After retiring from Virginia Power in 1986, he and Margie opened an antique shop, traveling far and wide in search of special finds. What began as a hobby grew into a twenty-year adventure and a treasured way of life.
A faithful member of Rosemary Baptist Church, Buddy served as a deacon and cherished his Bob Britton Sunday School Class. He also loved singing in the choir, lifting his voice in praise.
Buddy Hudson was the very definition of a Southern gentleman — gracious, helpful, and sincere. He lived an honest, joyful life and leaves behind a legacy of stories, kindness, and memories that will be held close by all who knew him.
Buddy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margie Hudson; his mother, Willie Bett Hudson; his father, Berry Frank Hudson; his sister, Winifred Foley; and his brother, William Hudson.
He is survived by his daughter, Deborah Crawford; grandson Drew Crawford (Jennifer) and great-grandsons Jameson and Aiden; grandson Fielding Crawford (Heather) and great-grandsons Gavin, Rivers, and Tucker; great-granddaughter Olivia; nephew Jeff Foley (Sheila); sister-in-law Peggy Hudson; and a very special friend and companion, Louise Wrenn.
Funeral services will be held Monday, November 24, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at Rosemary Baptist Church with Dr. Layne Wallace officiating. Burial will follow at Cedarwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 - 2:00 P.M. in the church fellowship hall.
Online condolences may be sent to www.hockadayfs.com